Just wanted to cross-post this here from my theology-ish blog. Its part of a "synch-blog" circle of posts by people interested in Emerging/Postmodern/Christian-Pagan dialog. This month's theme is Justice and Mission. I think most respondants are Christian, but are a group Pastor Phil has gathered over the years from around the world, really interesting bunch. The post just after it is a link to everyone else's.

For reference, "Christendom" refers to the idea of the "Christian world," basically what Europe and, to some degree America considered themselves for most of recent history, what happened after the union of Church and State with Constantine, and which is only breaking apart with the rise of secularism, the Enlightenment critique, and the realization that there are more Christians outside the global West/North than in it now!

I share the feeling of many that the union of the message and community of Jesus with state power was a terrible idea, and at least in some part responsible for all the terrible things done in Jesus' name. My post reflects on this, and what "mission" means in a world that seems more in need of healing than being told it needs to convert. Wrestling with what this means is a big concern of mine right now.

My friend Dan mentioned at least a few people still belong to this place, though I apologize that its been a bit vacant. Decide to share this from my journal, and let people know I might try ressurecting it a bit; I'm creating a few new blogs around some experimental church movements I've been a part of, and the practice of spiritual pilgrimage and dialog that originally inspired this place (and much of my journey)

I just thought I would post something which I discovered about a year ago and which, as a student of anthropology and a person of faith I found deeply fascinating.

It was in a publication called "Parabola" which reflects on myths, ritual and story from sacred traditions around the world. You can find them at http://www.parabola.org/

The article concerns the !Kung people of the Kalahari desert in Africa. I had previously studied this people in my anthropology courses, even seeing old black and white films of their relgious ceremonies, so I knew a little more than the article- including recent studies relating to genetics and language which I'll get to in a second.

Know this place has been fairly lonely lately, but wanted to share this:

I thought I'd refer any of my more mystically inclined friends to this fascinating thread started on the Christianity livejournal. Even post there if you feel so inclined, they welcome people of all religions though registration is required. Otherwise, feel free to comment on this thread if it strikes your fancy.

Hello all, I feel bad this place has somewhat fallen by the wayside, though thanks to Trevoke and others for the past few posts. Shall have to see if I can stir things up around here, now that I have a little more free time.

At the moment I just wanted to ask for thoughts/prayers/intentions for a friend of mine; she's a lady who has long directed the volunteer interfaith community I lived and worked with last year, and was recently diagnosed with cancer. She took a turn for the worst today, and can really use all the spiritual support she can get. Thanks in advance, her name is Anne, and I hope that whatever happens she be at peace.

Keep this in mind throughout the new year and all those to come, my friends, and ponder it.

Fame or self: Which matters more?Self or wealth: Which is more precious?Gain or loss: Which is more painful?He who is attached to things will suffer much.He who saves will suffer heavy loss.A contented man is never disappointed.He who knows when to stop does not find himself in trouble.He will stay forever safe.